Space maintainers usually last between one and two years or until the adult teeth erupt. Some may need to be replaced sooner if the child has many erupting permanent teeth, but most are designed to last for a few years.

Space maintainers aren't always necessary, but in many cases, they can help manage crowding issues as adult teeth come in. Dr. Bobby Marzban will assess each situation and determine if a space maintainer is needed.

The McLean Orthodontist is the perfect place to determine if your child is a good candidate for a space maintainer. Dr. Bobby Marzban provides friendly and knowledgeable care for his patients and can answer any questions about space maintainers and how they can benefit your child's smile. If you have questions or want more information, please call us today at (703) 356-8781!

Space maintainers are designed to be a comfortable and non-invasive solution for maintaining the space necessary for the proper growth of permanent teeth. While the process of fitting the space maintainer may cause slight discomfort, it is usually minimal and temporary. The device itself is custom-made to fit your child's mouth perfectly, ensuring comfort and ease of use. Any discomfort felt initially will typically subside within a few days as your child adjusts to the presence of the space maintainer.

The necessity of space maintainers can vary depending on the individual circumstances of each patient. They are typically used when a child loses a baby tooth prematurely, before the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. The space maintainer helps to keep the space open to allow the permanent tooth to erupt in the correct position. Without a space maintainer, other teeth may move into the open space, causing alignment issues and potential orthodontic problems in the future. Therefore, while they may not be necessary for every child, they play a crucial role in maintaining proper dental health and development for those who do need them.

Cleaning space maintainers is a straightforward process that can be incorporated into your child's regular oral hygiene routine. It involves regular brushing and flossing to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. It's important to brush around and under the space maintainer as well as the rest of the teeth. Flossing should also be done carefully to clean between the teeth and the space maintainer. In addition to regular home care, regular dental check-ups will ensure the space maintainer is clean and functioning properly.

The cost of space maintainers can vary based on several factors, including the type of space maintainer required, the complexity of the case, and the number of visits required for fitting and adjustments. It's also important to note that many dental insurance plans cover some or all of the cost of space maintainers. At The McLean Orthodontist, we are committed to providing high-quality care and will work with you to understand your insurance coverage and explore payment options to ensure your child gets the care they need. For a more accurate estimate, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Bobby Marzban who can evaluate your child's needs and provide a detailed cost breakdown.

The duration for wearing space maintainers varies for each child and depends on several factors, including the age at which the baby tooth was lost and how long it will take for the permanent tooth to emerge. Typically, children wear space maintainers for several months to a few years. Dr. Marzban will monitor your child's dental development through regular check-ups and remove the space maintainer once the permanent tooth begins to erupt. Regular monitoring ensures the device is removed at the optimal time to support proper tooth development.